A wildfire is currently burning near Hixon, according to the BC Wildfire Service.
Photos shared from the scene show smoke and flames visible from Highway 97 in the community 62 kilometres south of Prince George.
As of Saturday morning, the 70-hectare fire north of Naver Creek was being described by the service as "out of control," or a wildfire that is spreading or anticipated to spread beyond its current perimeter.
It's suspected to have been caused by human activity, the fire service reports.
There were no restrictions on travel as a result of the fire as of Sunday morning, BC Wildfire Service reports.
An evacuation order and an evacuation alert issued Saturday by the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George were rescinded Sunday.
"As the emergency is still ongoing, an Evacuation Order or Evacuation Alert may need to be reissued," states the notice.
Updates will be available at www.rffdg.ca or by calling 1-250-960-4400 (toll-free 1-800-667-1959).
In the event of an evacuation, officials are urging residents to follow a series of crucial steps to ensure their safety and assist emergency responders.
Before leaving, residents are advised to complete the following actions only if there is enough time and it is safe to do so.
What to bring:
- Emergency kit with critical items such as medications, wallet, cellphone, and keys
- Pets, secured in kennels or on a leash
- Protective clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes to guard against potential hazards
Prepare your home:
- Close all windows, vents, doors, and other openings. Gates should be latched but not locked
- Turn on interior and exterior lights to increase home visibility for firefighters in smoky conditions
- Do not shut off natural gas unless you suspect a leak. In such cases, turn off the gas valve and evacuate immediately. FortisBC will manage gas shut-off if required by emergency officials
- Leave a note in a visible location stating your destination and contact information, if you feel comfortable doing so
The fire was first reported Friday, May 2.
Looking ahead, temperatures are forecast to rise, increasing fire danger throughout the Central Interior.
Fire weather forecasters are predicting strong, gusty southerly winds of 40–60 km/h on Friday, May 2, ahead of an approaching cold front.
These conditions are expected to persist through Saturday, May 3.
Due to the elevated fire risk, the BC Wildfire Service is urging the public and industry to avoid open burning over the coming days. Spring wildfires in BC are most often caused by human activity, and officials are asking residents to do their part to reduce fire risk.
To report wildfires or violations of wildfire regulations, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 from a cell phone.
